In addition, you can notice in the pictures how the bottom area of the trunk looks white (kind of like a chalk smudge). I believe that it is the salt minerals in my water. Is there any remedies to soften the tap water for bonsai?

Just a few thoughts from someone who isn't much more than a novice:You have been going way to fast.... The hardest tool and one of the most important is Patience. You are trying to do everything in a sprint.... Bonsai is a marathon take your time. Many of us believe that a new tree needs to rest and you need to learn about it before you start working on it.

You wire work for a first time (not advanced) is commendable but, you are leaving to much space between the tree and the wire... They should be in contact all the time and you have crossed wires not a good thing. Learning how to wire from the Internet or a book is not the right way for you or your trees. GO TO A CLUB work with someone, bring your tree and ask about it, work with someone.....

Learn patience...... It takes years and years to develop a tree and longer from young stock.

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